Illinois Governor Candidate’s Family Killed in Montana Helicopter Crash

Four family members of a Republican candidate for Illinois governor died in a helicopter crash. The tragic accident occurred in a remote part of eastern Montana on Wednesday. Darren Bailey, a former state lawmaker, lost his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren.The news was confirmed by his campaign on Thursday. The family was in Montana on a business trip related to their farming operations.

Details of the Fatal Helicopter Incident

Killed in the crash were Zachary Bailey, his wife Kelsey, and their two children. Their children were 12-year-old Vada Rose and 7-year-old Samuel. A third child was not aboard the aircraft.Zachary Bailey was piloting the helicopter when it went down. The cause of the crash is currently unknown and under investigation. According to Reuters, the National Transportation Safety Board is leading the probe.The crash site was near the town of Ekalaka. The Carter County Sheriff’s Office responded to the incident Wednesday evening. No one else was on board the helicopter.

A Family’s Business Trip Turns to Tragedy

The trip was intended to expand the use of helicopters for the family farm. Zachary Bailey had held his pilot’s license for years. He initially obtained it to deliver medical supplies to people in developing nations.Darren Bailey and his wife, Cindy, are heartbroken by the loss. A campaign statement asked for prayers and noted the family is finding comfort in their faith. The political community has expressed its profound condolences.Illinois Governor JB Pritzker offered his sympathies to the Bailey family. He stated he could not imagine the pain of losing a child and grandchildren. The Illinois GOP chair also released a statement grieving the tragic loss.

Bad Bunny Dominates 2025 Billboard Latin Music Awards with Historic Wins

The investigation into the fatal helicopter crash continues as a family and community mourn an unimaginable loss.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was piloting the helicopter when it crashed?

Zachary Bailey, the son of Darren Bailey, was piloting the aircraft. He was a licensed pilot. The purpose of the flight was business-related.

Where did the helicopter crash happen?

The crash occurred in a remote area of eastern Montana. It was near the town of Ekalaka. The Carter County Sheriff’s Office was among the first responders.

Which authorities are investigating the crash?

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the incident. The cause of the crash is not yet known. Official reports may take some time to complete.

Was Darren Bailey’s entire family on the helicopter?

No, one of Zachary and Kelsey’s children was not on board. The couple’s third child was not present during the flight. This child was not involved in the accident.

What was Darren Bailey’s son’s reason for learning to fly?

Zachary Bailey got his license to deliver aid and medical supplies. He wanted to help people in third-world countries. His flying skills were later applied to the family farm business.